Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 12
Physical Site
Security
IT IS AN AXIOM IN THE SECURITY INDUSTRY that physical security
must be the primary focus while attempting to protect a business
facility or home from attack or theft. Remember that even the most
sophisticated alarm systems are designed to provide warning of the secu-
rity breach, not to stop the breach itself. Video cameras allow for the
remote monitoring of a location and, if an alert security officer is moni-
toring them, may provide advance warning of an intrusion attempt. Video
also can provide a record for later use as evidence by law enforcement
authorities. Similarly, infrared detection systems and electronic sensors do
nothing to actually prevent an intrusion. These systems are designed to
alert, not prevent.
This chapter is designed for corporate managers and executives as well
as employees tasked with making general recommendations regarding
necessary security upgrades. It provides a detailed look at how to enhance
the physical security of your office or other facility. This process may be
costly. Upgrading the security of a poorly prepared facility can easily cost
several million dollars. While this may seem like a large and unnecessary
expense, it must be viewed in the context of protecting the more valuable
assets of the corporation. An appropriate capital investment now may ulti-
mately save the corporation many more millions that may be lost in the
event of a severe terrorist incident or criminal act. Many historical prece-
dents support this position. For example, the rash of airplane hijackings
in the 1970s led to the implementation of the sky marshal program. The
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